Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe – Healthy & Delicious Pasta

Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that’s known for its creamy, rich flavor and comforting appeal. But who says you can’t make a healthier version without compromising on taste? This Best Chicken Alfredo recipe offers the perfect balance of creamy pasta, savory chicken, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting guests, or treating yourself to a special meal, this dish is a delicious and satisfying choice.

Made with simple ingredients like boneless chicken breasts, freshly grated Parmesan, and heavy cream, this Chicken Alfredo strikes the right balance between indulgence and health. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and velvety sauce come together for a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic favorite in a healthier, more balanced way.

With easy-to-follow steps, this recipe ensures you’ll enjoy all the goodness of Chicken Alfredo without any guilt. It’s the ultimate pasta dish that can be whipped up in no time, leaving everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Version of a Classic

This recipe makes Chicken Alfredo healthier by using a moderate amount of butter, opting for lean chicken breasts, and incorporating fresh ingredients to keep it light yet flavorful.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in less than 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

3. Creamy, Velvety Sauce

The homemade Alfredo sauce is rich and creamy, made with heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating the perfect consistency without being too heavy.

4. Tender, Flavorful Chicken

The chicken breasts are seasoned perfectly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a little salt and pepper, ensuring every bite is flavorful and juicy.

5. Customizable

You can easily tweak the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrients, or by substituting the pasta with a gluten-free alternative.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 10 oz (280g) fettuccine or linguine
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 stick (8 tbsp or 113g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/4 cups (125g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the fettuccine or linguine for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest before slicing it thinly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet that you cooked the chicken in, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Lower the heat and slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it in the Alfredo sauce until well coated. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chicken Alfredo immediately, making sure to enjoy it while it’s hot and creamy. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Grate Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and create a smoother sauce than pre-grated cheese.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
• Reserve Pasta Water: If the sauce becomes too thick, adding a little pasta water can help loosen it and make it creamier.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. It should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside.

How to Serve

Serve the Chicken Alfredo with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A slice of warm garlic bread or some crusty bread will also pair perfectly with the creamy pasta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

While pasta dishes can be tricky to freeze, you can freeze the chicken and Alfredo sauce separately. Freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. The Alfredo sauce can also be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to use, reheat both the chicken and sauce before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Chicken Alfredo on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings until heated through, stirring halfway.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other types of pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or penne.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. Can I make the sauce lighter?

For a lighter version, try substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little flour to thicken the sauce.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

To prevent the sauce from separating, avoid overheating the cream, and be sure to stir the sauce constantly while adding the Parmesan cheese slowly.

6. How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in a bit of lemon juice, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking to boost its flavor.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This Chicken Alfredo is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it before adding the pasta and chicken.

8. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

While freshly grated Parmesan gives the best results, you can use pre-grated cheese if needed. Just note that it may not melt as smoothly.

9. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or peas to make the dish more nutritious and colorful.

10. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

You can try adding a little mozzarella or Romano cheese to the Alfredo sauce for a different flavor, but Parmesan is the classic choice for this dish.

Conclusion

This Best Chicken Alfredo recipe is a delicious, healthier take on a classic favorite. With tender chicken, a creamy homemade sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or serve a crowd, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Enjoy!

Print